<Tab/>Whether it's playing football, basketball or running, athletes need to eat a nutritious, balanced diet to fuel their body. Good nutrition, like any sporting event, has basic ground rules. Following these rules and getting plenty of practice will help athletes feel great and score those winning points. It is important that an athlete's diet provides the right amount of energy, which includes 50-plus nutrients and adequate water. No single food …showed first 75 words of 665 total…

…showed last 75 words of 665 total…amp;lt;Tab/>If the exercise was strenuous and lasted a long time, glycogen stores may need refueling. Consuming foods and beverages high in carbohydrates right after exercise will replenish glycogen stores if they are low after exercising. No matter the intensity of the exercise, it's important to drink plenty of water and eat a nutritious, balanced meal that has lots of carbohydrate rich foods such as grains, pastas, potatoes, vegetables and fruits.